Summertime is a time for travel. Traveling involves packing. Some thoughts on packing: Accept and embrace the fact that packing is a necessary part of traveling. Accept that some ‘packs’ are easier than others. Packing doesn't mean you have to re-assess your entire wardrobe.

Two stories of hope in the news and they both center on community. It takes a village.

  We were sitting at the airport chatting and waiting for Jaclyn’s plane to land. Eric was busy playing a game on his phone. Just an ordinary afternoon in our house.

This week I am again thinking about engagements. Probably because my step-daughter, Danielle,  got engaged on Saturday. Once that happens it’s difficult to think about anything other than the engagement.  

Some days remind me of time in a political campaign running from event to event. Yesterday fit that description, including a decision not to squeeze in another “stop.” Morning basketball and then a decision whether to stop at the pool or just go home to change for a client union's picnic. Chose home, then the rains come.

I enjoy watching the Olympics. I'm always amazed at the dedication, drive and committment these athletes make to test their skills and athletic prowess once every four years. The sheer beauty of the venue, athletes and host country is truly spectacular.  

Last Sunday I had the best turkey sandwich I've ever tasted in my life. The fresh turkey was moist and it had (our) garden fresh tomatoes, spicy Dijon mustard and crispy lettuce blanketing it on a seeded soft roll.  See photo. It was having a party in my mouth!  Yum! Thanks and props to the maker (Jo) from the eater!

The games of summer. "Connect Four", "Air Hockey" and "Skee Ball". Remember them? Recently, "Connect Four" re-entered our lives. We have the travel-size and it's perfect on our trips. Flo likes to pack it when we travel and challenges me to a game or two, which becomes the "best of five" or "best of seven".